Method for applying variable electro-muscle stimulation and system therefor

ABSTRACT

A method for applying variable electro-muscle stimulation (EMS) to an exercising person includes a belt having a plurality of electrodes placed around the abdomen at the rectus abdominis and obliques. The person then gets into an exercise apparatus which has a rotatable component. Attached to the rotatable component is a transducer that senses the position of the component. An EMS generator is connected to the belt through the transducer. As the user exercises in a first direction, increasing stimulation is applied to the subject muscles. As the user moves the rotatable component in the opposite direction, decreasing stimulation is applied to the user. In an alternative embodiment, the belt has at least one pair of electrodes connected to a common adjustment control so that as the voltage increases to one of the electrodes, it decreases to the other electrode of the pair, and vice versa. A toggle switch makes possible the selection of a particular pair.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the filing benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) ofU.S. Provisional Application No. 60/405,659, filed Aug. 26, 2002, whichis included herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention pertains generally to electro-muscle stimulation(EMS), and more particularly to a method and system for applying avarying level of EMS as a user activates an exercise apparatus.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Electro-muscle stimulation (EMS) is well known in the medical art. Thistechnology utilizes a conductive pad or electrode to externally apply avery weak current to a muscle or group of muscles and thereby cause themto contract. The electrode receives an electric stimulation signal froman external voltage/current source, such as an EMS machine. Thestimulation signal can be adjusted in amplitude, polarity, frequency,waveform, etc. EMS is commonly used in physical or occupational therapyto strengthen atrophied muscles or paralyzed limbs. It is also used toexercise muscles that are immobilized for long periods of time as aresult of muscular or neurological disorders, or extended periods of bedrest arising from injury, surgery, or illness. EMS is also useful forthe general exercise of functional muscles to improve muscle tone andstrength. For example, athletes can use EMS to treat muscle injuries asa supplement to conventional conditioning exercises. EMS can also beused to recondition muscles or muscle groups which have, for whateverreason, lost their tone and/or strength, have been injured, or are inneed of reconditioning to effect cosmetic improvements. An operator whohas been trained in the principles of EMS can analyze the areas whichare of concern and select the proper muscles to exercise and train.

For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,341,237 illustrates a device foradministrating EMS which includes a flexible covering having a pluralityof spaced apart electrodes. In a preferred embodiment, the flexiblecovering is shaped like a band or belt, and is designed to encircle andbe connected around a portion of a patient's body. The band or belt isfabricated from an elastic material so that the electrodes are pressedagainst the skin of the patient to promote better electrical conduction.Electrodes are selectively positionable to different locations on theflexible covering so they may be placed directly over a selected muscleor muscle group. Each electrode has its individual control for adjustingthe level of the electrical stimulation signal so that different musclescan receive different levels of stimulation and the level of stimulationmay be changed during the course of treatment. A master adjustmentcontrol can be used to adjust the stimulation signal level applied toall electrodes. In a preferred embodiment, the individual adjustmentcontrols are located adjacent their respective electrodes on theflexible covering. U.S. Pat. No. 4,480,830 illustrates a method andapparatus for exercising paralyzed muscles. The method and apparatusmake use of a set of transcutaneous electrodes which are placed upon theskin of the subject over muscles which are to be stimulated. A computercontrolled stimulator generates a pair of alternately pulsed stimulationsignals which are applied across different pairs of stimulationelectrodes to produce controlled muscle contraction. Muscle movement isresisted by a dynamic load and a position sensor provides a feedbacksignal indicating the movement actually achieved. The computer uses thefeedback signal for modifying the control signal applied to thestimulator. U.S. Pat. No. 4,499,990 shows a system and method fortreating persons with paralyzed legs. The apparatus and method includefour sets of transcutaneous electrodes which are placed above the iliacand quadriceps muscles of the paralyzed person. The person is seatedupon an exercycle and a series of pulsed stimulation signals are appliedto the electrodes to cause coordinated contraction of the iliac andquadriceps muscles. This causes pedaling of the exercycle by theparalyzed legs. A position sensor senses the position of the pedals andtransmits an indication thereof to a computer which generates controlsignals for stimulation driving circuits connected to the stimulationelectrodes. U.S. Pat. No. 4,586,495 illustrates an apparatus and methodfor stimulating muscular activity in an acutely injured patient. A legwhich is to be stimulated is strapped into a brace and the leg musclesare stimulated to work isometrically against the brace. The effortexerted by the muscles is measured by load cells which generate feedbacksignals for a control computer. The computer adjusts the stimulationsignals in accordance with the received feedback signals. U.S. Pat. No.4,586,510 discloses an apparatus for exercising a paralyzed limb byfunctional electrical stimulation. The system utilizes simple analogdevices including a reference signal generator, a position sensor, andan error signal generator. The error signal is integrated to produce astimulation driving signal for application to the stimulation electrodesmounted on the limb. In the disclosed embodiment, the paralyzed personmay be seated in an exercise chair which is equipped with a pair ofloading assemblies which are attachable to the legs of the person so asto yieldingly resist the stimulated movement. U.S. Pat. No. 4,724,842shows a method and apparatus for muscle stimulation. An exercise machineor dynamometer is provided with control apparatus for ascertaining thephysical position of a patient during an exercise. The patient is thenelectrically stimulated over selected ranges of motion in order to aidin the exercise. U.S. Pat. No. 5,070,873 includes a method of andapparatus for electrically stimulating quadriceps muscles of an uppermotor unit paraplegic. Muscle fatigue of an electrically stimulatedquadriceps muscle of an upper motor neuron paraplegic is detected andcompensated for by monitoring the myoelectric (EMG) signal produced bythe stimulated muscle and controlling one or more of the followingparameters of the electrical stimulation (ES) signal: pulse repetitionrate, amplitude, and pulse width. U.S. Pat. No. 5,507,788 illustrates amethod and apparatus for controlling skeletal muscle fatigue duringelectrical stimulation. Electrical stimulation signals are applied tomuscles at a frequency which is varied in response to a detected ripplesignal in an output tension or torque record which corresponds to thefusion of the multiple muscle contractions. An average torque amplitudeis first determined when a stimulation signal is applied at an initialfrequency. The amplitude of the ripple on the torque output is thendetermined and compared to the average torque amplitude to provide aripple percentage. The measured ripple percentage is compared to aselected ripple percentage corresponding to the desired fusion of themultiple muscle contractions. And the stimulation frequency is adjustedby a feedback loop until the measured ripple percentage conforms to theselected value. U.S. Pat. No. 5,628,722 shows a method for maintainingknee stability of a user suffering from damage to a knee ligament. Themethod includes a sensor feedback system for measuring abnormal physicalrelationships between the tibia and femur. The sensor feedback systemdetermines whether selected conditions have been met warranting theapplication of electrical stimulation and provides information regardingthe determination to an electronic stimulator. Electrodes are spaceablymounted on the hamstring and/or quadriceps muscles in electricalcommunication with the electronic stimulator for causing contraction ofthe thigh muscles at selected levels, thus providing a posteriorlyand/or anteriorly directed force to the upper tibial bone and therebypreventing its instability.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a method and associated system forapplying varying electro-muscle stimulation. The method can be practicedon any exercise apparatus which has a rotational element upon which theuser exerts a force during the course of exercising. A transducer sensesthe rotation of the exercise apparatus, and delivers an output signal toan EMS covering such as a belt which is placed on a target muscle groupof the user. As the user works to rotate the apparatus, the outputsignal of the transducer increases from zero at no rotation to a maximumvalue as a function of the amount of rotation. In this fashion theelectro-muscle stimulation rises smoothly as the muscle moves duringflexion and peaks upon full contraction or end phase of motion.

A preferred name for the present invention is electro-augmentedmyociser. The electro-augmented myociser is to be used concurrently withan electro myociser belt, which consists of a belt having electrodesstrategically placed to stimulate specific muscles of the body.Electrical signals, directed by the location of the electrodes withinthe belt, are emitted causing contraction of targeted muscles.

The purpose of the electro-augmented myociser is to augment and enhancenatural exercise by encouraging maximum muscle contraction of thosemuscles that are easily exercised. It also isolates and enhancescontraction of targeted muscle groups that are difficult to exercise.Controls allow the user to establish the level of difficulty that iscomfortable and change the level during use. Additionally, the user maychange the stimulus to specific sites within a muscle group during use.

The present invention may be incorporated in a vast variety of exerciseapparatus including but not limited to equipment used to exercise theabdomen, deltoids, biceps, hamstrings, and quadriceps. It operates underthe principle of voltage application being supplied only as the personcontracts or actuates his or her muscles. As the person exercisesactivating a range of motion, the exercise apparatus moves or pivots.The movement or rotation of the equipment is mechanically coupled to atransducer that controls the output of the electrical stimulus. Thevoltage rises smoothly as the muscle moves causing contraction to peakupon full contraction. In the opposite direction, the voltage reducessmoothly as the muscle is relaxed. When the muscle is at rest, or fullyelongated, the voltage is zero. In the process of performing activeexercise with augmented electro muscle stimulation, the tendons andbones realize a healthier benefit than merely administering passivemuscle stimulus alone. What is completely unique about the presentinvention is that the voltage surge is not controlled by the machine,but is instead controlled by the actions of the individual performingthe exercise. The present invention will further induce motivation byenabling the person to perform a greater number of repetitions with lesseffort, thereby providing enhanced muscle development in a shorter timespan.

Alternately, the user may have the option of putting the electricalstimulation from the voltage source to the belt on automatic to apredesignated mode and rate when he becomes fatigued and unable tocontinue exercising. The preferred mode is a surge mode. For example, asurge of eight seconds on and five seconds off may be selected. Thisprovides a constricting action on the abdominals with a rest or recoveryperiod. The surge mode tends to give a better result than using a pulsemode.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, a method forapplying variable electro-muscle stimulation, includes:

(a) providing a flexible electro-muscle stimulation covering having aplurality of spaced apart electrodes, the electrodes disposed in apattern upon the flexible covering which matches a predetermined groupof human muscles, so that when the flexible covering is placed upon apatient, the electrodes are proximate to the predetermined group ofmuscles, wherein the pattern matches predetermined groups of muscles,the muscles being the upper portion of the rectus abdominus, the lowerportion of the rectus abdominus, the right obliques, and the leftobliques.

(b) providing an exercise system having (1) an exercise apparatus havinga member which is rotatable about an axis by an exercising user, and (2)a transducer communicating with the axis, so that as the member isrotated, the transducer generates an output signal which is a functionof an angular position of the member;

(c) providing an electro-muscle stimulation system which delivers avoltage to the transducer;

(d) providing electrical emphasis to certain regions over other regionswithin the muscle group;

(e) placing the electro-muscle stimulation covering upon a target musclegroup of the user;

(f) causing the output signal to be delivered to the electro-musclestimulation covering;

(g) the user rotating the member in a first direction thereby causingthe output signal to increase thereby causing increased electro-musclestimulation to be applied to the user; and,

(h) the user rotating the member in an opposite direction therebycausing the output signal to decrease thereby causing decreasedelectro-muscle stimulation to be applied to the user.

In accordance with another preferred embodiment of the invention, amethod for applying variable electro-muscle stimulation, includes:

(a) providing an electro-muscle stimulation device having:

-   -   a flexible covering having a plurality of spaced apart        electrodes;    -   the electrodes including:        -   a first positive electrode;        -   a second positive electrode; and,        -   a return electrode disposed between the first and second            positive electrodes;    -   a voltage source connected between the positive electrodes and        the return electrode; and,    -   an adjustment control which simultaneously applies a first        positive voltage to the first positive electrode and a second        positive voltage to the second positive electrode, so that as        the first positive voltage increases, the second positive        voltage decreases, and as the first positive voltage decreases,        the second positive voltage increases;

(b) providing an exercise system having:

-   -   an exercise apparatus having a member which is rotatable about        an axis by an exercising user;    -   a transducer communicating with the axis; and,    -   so that as the member is rotated, the transducer generates an        output signal which is a function of an angular position of the        member;

(c) providing an electro-muscle stimulation system which delivers avoltage to the transducer;

(d) placing the electro-muscle stimulation covering upon the user;

(e) causing the output signal to be delivered to the electro-musclestimulation covering;

(f) the user rotating the member in a first direction thereby causingthe output signal to increase thereby causing increased electro-musclestimulation to be applied to the user; and,

(g) the user rotating the member in an opposite second direction,thereby causing the output signal to decrease thereby causing decreasedelectro-muscle stimulation to be applied to the user.

Other aspects of the present invention will become apparent from thefollowing detailed description, taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, theprinciples of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a prior art exercise apparatus;

FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of the prior art exercise apparatus;

FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of the prior art exercise apparatusrotated to a second position;

FIG. 4 is a top plan view of a system for applying electro-musclestimulation in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of the system;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of area 6—6 of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of area 7—7 of FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is an electrical schematic diagram of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a graph which illustrates an output signal V_(θ) as a functionof rotational angle θ;

FIG. 10 is a reduced side elevation view of the system of the presentinvention being used by an exercising user in an initial position;

FIG. 11 is a reduced side elevation view of the system of the presentinvention being used by an exercising user in a rotated position;

FIG. 12 is a front elevation view of a user;

FIG. 13 is a side elevation view of a user;

FIG. 14 is a top plan view of the outside of an abdominal covering;

FIG. 15 is a top plan view of a second abdominal covering;

FIG. 16 is a top plan view of a third abdominal covering;

FIG. 17 is a top plan view of a second prior art exercise apparatus;

FIG. 18 is a side elevation view of the second prior art exerciseapparatus;

FIG. 19 is a side elevation view of the second prior art exerciseapparatus rotated to a second position;

FIG. 20 is a top plan view of a second system for applyingelectro-muscle stimulation in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 21 is a side elevation view of the second system;

FIG. 22 is a side elevation view of the second system of the presentinvention being used by an exercising user in an initial position;

FIG. 23 is a side elevation view of the second system of the presentinvention rotated to a second position;

FIG. 24 is a top plan view of another covering; and,

FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram of the covering of FIG. 24.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIGS. 1 and 2 are top plan and side elevation views, respectively, of aprior art exercise apparatus, generally designated as 500. In the shownembodiment, exercise apparatus 500 comprises an abdominal roller whichis used to exercise the abdominal muscles of an exercising user.Exercise apparatus 500 includes a member 502 which is rotatable about anaxis 504 such as an axle by the exercising user. Member 502 rotatesabout base 506 which resides on a support surface 700.

FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of prior art exercise apparatus 500rotated through an angle θ to a second position.

FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate top plan and side elevation views,respectively, of a system for applying variable electro-musclestimulation in accordance with the present invention, generallydesignated as 40. System 40 includes exercise apparatus 500 having amember 502 which is rotated about an axis 504 by an exercising user. Atransducer 20 communicates with axis 504, so that as member 502 isrotated about axis 504, transducer 20 generates an output signal whichis a function of an angular position of member 502.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of area 6—6 of FIG. 4. In the shownembodiment, transducer 20 is an angular position-to-voltage transducer,such as a potentiometer. Transducer 20 is connected by shaft 22 to axisof rotation 504 of member 502, so that as member 502 is rotated, shaft22 of transducer 20 also rotates. The housing of transducer 20 isattached to a bracket 25 which is in turn attached to base 506. In thismanner, as member 502 is rotated about axis of rotation 504, shaft 22rotates and changes the output signal V_(θ) of transducer 20 (refer alsoto FIG. 9). It is noted that a plurality of transducers 20 maycommunicate with axis 504, such as the two shown in the FIG. 6. It maybe appreciated that other shaft position transducers such as shaft angleencoders, digitizers, etc. could be utilized to convert the rotation ofmember 502 into an output signal.

FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the area 7—7 of FIG. 5. It is noted thatthe terminals of transducer 20 are routed to an EMS system (machine) andan EMS covering which is placed upon an appropriate part of theexercising user's body (refer also to FIGS. 8, 10, and 11).

FIG. 8 is an electrical schematic diagram of the present invention. AnEMS system delivers a voltage V1 to transducer 20. In the shownembodiment voltage V1 is referenced to ground, however other referencearrangements are also possible. As member 502 of exercise apparatus 500is rotated through angle θ, the wiper of transducer 20 generates anoutput signal (voltage V1 _(θ)) which is routed to an EMS covering suchas a belt which is placed upon a part of the user's body (refer to EMScovering 550 in FIGS. 10 and 11). Output signal V1 _(θ) increases from aminimum value for θ=zero, to a value of V1 for θ=a maximum rotationalvalue. In the shown embodiment, two transducers 20 comprise two separatechannel inputs (1 and 2) to the EMS covering. In one embodiment, the twochannels deliver EMS to different muscle groups of the user. In anembodiment of the invention, a voltage level control 21 is provided oneach of the two channels. The voltage level control 21 includes apotentiometer which controls the voltage (V1 or V2) delivered totransducer 20, and thereby the intensity of the electro-musclestimulation. The mechanical placement of the voltage level control 21 isshown in FIGS. 4, 5, 10, 11, and 20-23. The voltage level control isplaced so a user can conveniently control the intensity of the EMSduring exercise without breaking the exercise rhythm.

FIG. 9 is a graph which illustrates the output signal V_(θ) as afunction of rotational angle θ of member 502. The output signal V_(θ)rises smoothly as the exercise apparatus 500 is rotated. The outputsignal V_(θ) could be linear as shown in I, or nonlinear as shown in IIor III.

FIGS. 10 and 11 are side elevation views of system 40 being used by anexercising user. In FIG. 10 the user is initially reclining on his orher back, and in FIG. 11 the user has rotated to the shown position. AnEMS covering 120 is disposed around the user's abdomen. The outputsignal V_(θ) from transducer 20 is delivered to the EMS covering 120. Asthe user rotates member 502 from the position of FIG. 10 in a firstdirection 30, output signal V_(θ) increases thereby causing increasingelectro-muscle stimulation. Conversely, as the user rotates member 502in an opposite second direction 31, output signal V_(θ) decreasesthereby causing decreasing electro-muscle stimulation. It is noted thatthe output signal V_(θ) increases as the user is using his or herabdominal muscles to rotate member 502. Applying increasingelectro-muscle stimulation as the user is using his or her muscles,enhances the benefits of the exercise. Voltage level control 21 isconveniently located on member 502 adjacent the hands of the user sothat the intensity of the EMS can be adjusted during exercise withoutbreaking the exercise rhythm.

FIG. 12 is a front elevation view of a patient 706 showing the musclesof the rectus abdominis divided at the umbilical area 712 into an upperportion 708 and a lower portion 710. The rectus abdominis includes twodistinct muscles on opposite sides of the linea alba. But for purposesof this invention, they work together and are stimulated together. Line714 defines the junction of the right and left obliques 716 with theupper portion 708 and lower portion 710 of the rectus abdominis (referalso to FIG. 13).

FIG. 13 is a side elevation view of the patient 706 showing the rightobliques 716. The left obliques are on the opposite side. Line 714defines the junction of the right obliques 716 with the upper portion708 and lower portion 710 of the rectus abdominis.

FIG. 14 illustrates a top plan view of the outside of the abdominalcovering 120 of FIGS. 10 and 11. The abdominal covering or belt isspecifically designed to encircle the abdomen and stimulate the musclegroups of the central torso. Abdominal covering 120 includes a flexiblecovering or band 124, selectively positionable electrodes 146, 148, 150,and 152, and connector 130. Some of the electrodes receive a positivestimulation signal 134 and some receive a negative stimulation signal138. The stimulated muscles (FIGS. 12 and 13) are the upper portion 708and the lower portion 710 of the rectus abdominis, the right obliques716, and the left obliques. Abdominal covering 120 includes a firstpositive electrode 140 which, when placed upon a patient, is proximateto the upper portion 708 of the rectus abdominis, a second positiveelectrode 142 which, when placed upon a patient, is proximate to thelower portion of the rectus abdominis, and a third negative return orcommon electrode 144 disposed between first 140 and second 142 positiveelectrodes in the umbilical region 712. Return electrode 144 provides aconduction path for both first positive electrode 140 and secondpositive electrode 142. It is noted that second positive electrode 142has a truncated shape, in the form of edge 143, so as to avoidstimulation of the femoral nerve.

A fourth positive electrode 146 is placed on the left obliques on theside of the abdomen above the iliac crest and a fifth return electrode148 is placed proximate to the junction 714 of the left obliques 716 andthe upper and lower portions 708 and 710 of the rectus abdominis. Thefifth return electrode 148 is disposed between the fourth positiveelectrode 146 and third return electrode 144. By placing the returnelectrodes 144 and 148 adjacent to each other, the electrodes whichstimulate the rectus abdominis are electrically isolated from theelectrodes which stimulate the obliques thereby minimizing stimulationinteraction. A sixth positive electrode 150 is placed on the rightobliques on the side of the abdomen above the iliac crest and a seventhreturn electrode 152 is placed proximate to the junction 714 of theright obliques 716 and the upper and lower portions 708 and 710 of therectus abdominis. The seventh return electrode 152 is disposed betweenthe sixth positive electrode 150 and third return electrode 144 in orderto again minimize stimulation interaction.

A voltage source such as an EMS machine provides the signals 134 and138. An overall control box 121 can be attached to the covering 120,located nearby, or attached to an exercise device such as an ab rollerexerciser. Individual adjustment controls 131, 132, and 133 determinethe voltage delivered to first positive electrode 140, fourth and sixthpositive electrodes 146 and 150, and second positive electrode 142,respectively. A master adjustment control 135 provides overall voltagecontrol to the individual controls 131, 132, and 133. An adjustmentcontrol 136 simultaneously applies a first positive voltage 137 tofourth positive electrode 146 and a second positive voltage 138 to sixthpositive electrode 150. As first positive voltage 137 increases, secondpositive voltage 138 decreases. And as first positive voltage 137decreases, second positive voltage 138 increases.

FIG. 15 illustrates a top plan view of the outside of a second abdominalcovering 320 similar to abdominal covering 120 of FIG. 14 but havingdual channels. Abdominal covering 320 includes a flexible covering orband 324, selectively positionable electrodes 346, 348, 350, and 352,and connector 330. Abdominal covering 320 includes a first positiveelectrode 340 which, when placed upon a patient, is proximate to theupper portion 708 of the rectus abdominis, a second positive electrode342 which, when placed upon a patient, is proximate to the lower portionof the rectus abdominis, and a third negative return or common electrode344 disposed between first 340 and second 342 positive electrodes in theumbilical region 712. Return electrode 344 provides a conduction pathfor both first positive electrode 340 and second positive electrode 342.It is noted that second positive electrode 342 has a truncated shape, inthe form of edge 343, so as to avoid stimulation of the femoral nerve.

A fourth positive electrode 346 is placed on the left obliques on theside of the abdomen above the iliac crest and a fifth return electrode348 is placed proximate to the junction 714 of the left obliques 716 andthe upper and lower portions 708 and 710 of the rectus abdominis. Thefifth return electrode 348 is disposed between the fourth positiveelectrode 346 and third return electrode 344. By placing the returnelectrodes 344 and 348 adjacent to each other, the electrodes whichstimulate the rectus abdominis are electrically isolated from theelectrodes which stimulate the obliques thereby minimizing stimulationinteraction. A sixth positive electrode 350 is placed on the rightobliques on the side of the abdomen above the iliac crest and a seventhreturn electrode 352 is placed proximate to the junction 714 of theright obliques 716 and the upper and lower portions 708 and 710 of therectus abdominis. The seventh return electrode 352 is disposed betweenthe sixth positive electrode 350 and third return electrode 344 in orderto again minimize stimulation interaction.

A voltage source such as an EMS machine provides the channel signals 334and 335. The covering 320 has two channels. One channel 335 providesstimulation and intensity control to the upper, mid, and lower rectusabdominis. The other channel 334 provides stimulation and intensitycontrol to the right and left obliques. Each channel operatesindependently from the other providing respective input to these musclegroups. The two diverging or balance controls 331, 336 are mounted onthe covering or belt 320. Potentiometers may be used as the divertingdevices. However, other diverting systems may also be used for exampleseparate channels or multiple EMS units.

The first diverging control 331 distributes the electrical input 335between the first positive electrode 340 placed over the upper rectusabdominis and the second positive electrode 342 placed over the lowerrectus abdominis. The third electrode 344 located at the umbilicus actsas a return. This control facilitates the concentration of stimulationto either the upper or lower rectus abdominis. As the first positivevoltage 332 to the first electrode 340 increases, the second positivevoltage 333 to the second electrode 342 decreases. And as the firstpositive voltage decreases, the second positive voltage increases.

The second diverging control 336 distributes the electrical input 334between the fourth positive electrode 346 over the right obliques andsixth positive electrode 350 over the left obliques. The fifth electrode348 and sixth electrode 352 located along each junction of the obliquesand rectus abdominis serve as returns. This control facilitates balanceand equal stimulation of the right and left obliques. As the thirdpositive voltage 337 to the sixth positive electrode 350 increases, thefourth positive voltage 338 to the seventh positive electrode 346decreases. And as the third positive voltage decreases, the fourthpositive voltage increases.

FIG. 16 illustrates a top plan view of the outside of a third abdominalcovering 460 similar to abdominal covering 320 of FIG. 15 but having asingle channel. Abdominal covering 420 includes a flexible covering orband 424, selectively positionable electrodes 444, 446, 448, 450, and452, and connector 430. The control and versatility of the covering orbelt is less than the dual channel covering or belt but it is moreeconomical. The first return electrode 444 is placed on the rectusabdominis at the umbilical region. It is adjustable with respect toplacement allowing the user to target any region between the umbillicaland lower rectus abdominis. The second positive electrode 452 is placedat the junction of the rectus abdominis and left oblique muscles. Thethird positive electrode 448 is placed at the junction of the rectusabdominis and right oblique muscles. A diverting device 431 controls theintensity balance between the second and third positive electrodes. Thefourth positive electrode 450 is placed at the most lateral portion ofthe left obliques between the iliac crest and lower ribs. The fifthpositive electrode 446 is placed at the most lateral portion of theright obliques between the iliac crest and lower ribs. Diverting device431 simultaneously applies a first positive voltage 432 to secondpositive electrode 452 and a second positive voltage 433 to thirdpositive electrode 448. As the first positive voltage 432 increases, thesecond positive voltage 433 decreases. And as the first positive voltagedecreases, the second positive voltage increases. A diverting device 436controls the intensity balance between the fourth and fifth positiveelectrodes. Diverting device 436 simultaneously applies a third positivevoltage 437 to fourth positive electrode 450 and a fourth positivevoltage 438 to fifth positive electrode 446. As the third positivevoltage increases, the fourth positive voltage decreases. And as thethird positive voltage decreases, the fourth positive voltage increases.A toggle switch 460 enables the user to alternatively stimulate theregion between the rectus abdominis and medial obliques to target theanterior abdomen versus stimulating the region between the rectusabdominis and lateral obliques to target the lateral obliques.Generally, the lateral most aspects of the obliques are more responsiveto electrical stimulation than the medial portions. A resistor 462 istherefore preferred to reduce the voltage to the lateral obliques whenthe toggle switch 460 is changed. This eliminates the sudden surge thatmay otherwise be experienced when the toggle switch is switched from themedial to lateral obliques.

FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate top plan and side elevation views,respectively, of a second prior art exercise apparatus, generallydesignated as 600. In the shown embodiment, exercise apparatus 600comprises a chair like device which is used to exercise the legs musclesof an exercising user. Exercise apparatus 600 includes a member 602which is rotated about an axis 604 by the leg of the exercising user. Aweight 608 provides rotational resistance. Member 602 rotates about base606 which resides on a support surface 700.

FIG. 19 is a side elevation view of prior art exercise apparatus 600rotated through an angle θ to a second position.

FIGS. 20 and 21 illustrate top plan and side elevation views,respectively, of a second system for applying electro-muscle stimulationin accordance with the present invention, generally designated as 140.System 140 includes exercise apparatus 600 having a member 602 which isrotatable about an axis 604 by an exercising user. A transducer 20communicates with axis 604, so that as member 602 is rotated about axis604, transducer 20 generates an output signal which is a function of anangular position of member 602.

FIGS. 22 and 23 are side elevation views of system 140 being used by anexercising user. In FIG. 22 the leg of the user is initially at rest andhooked under a padded roller 610. In FIG. 23 the user has rotated member602 to the shown position. An EMS covering 220 is disposed around theuser's thigh. The output signal V_(θ) from transducer 20 is delivered toEMS covering 220. As the user rotates member 602 from the position ofFIG. 22 in a first direction 30, output signal V_(θ) increases therebycausing increasing electro-muscle stimulation. Conversely, as the userrotates member 602 in an opposite second direction 31, output signalV_(θ) decreases thereby causing decreasing electro-muscle stimulation.It is noted that the output signal V_(θ) increases as the user is usinghis or her leg muscles to rotate member 602. Applying increasingelectro-muscle stimulation as the user is using his or her muscles,enhances the benefits of the exercise. Voltage level control 21 isconveniently located adjacent the hand of the user so that the intensityof the EMS can be adjusted during exercise without breaking the exerciserhythm.

FIG. 24 is a top plan view of the covering 220 of FIGS. 22 and 23. FIG.25 is a schematic diagram of the covering 220. Covering 220 includes afirst positive electrode 222 and a second positive electrode 224. Areturn electrode 226 is disposed between first positive electrode 222and second positive electrode 224. An adjustment control 228simultaneously applies a first positive voltage 230 to first positiveelectrode 222 and a second positive voltage 232 to second positiveelectrode 224. As first positive voltage 230 increases, second positivevoltage 232 decreases. And as first positive voltage 230 decreases,second positive voltage 232 increases. A voltage/current source 500applies an electrical stimulation signal input. Covering 220 is designedfor the application of traverse stimulation. In this application, asingle covering 220 is utilized in which the positive and returnelectrodes are placed on the same covering. The central return electrode226 is somewhat larger in surface area than the positive electrodes 222and 224. This design allows the concentration of stimuli to the returnelectrode to become dispersed in order to dilute the intensity of thestimulation feed from both positive electrodes 222 and 224. It may bereadily appreciated that the positive and return negative or groundelectrodes may be reversed.

In terms of use, a method for applying electro-muscle stimulation,includes:

(a) providing a flexible electro-muscle stimulation covering 120 havinga plurality of spaced apart electrodes 140, 142, 144, 146, 148, 150, and152, said electrodes disposed in a pattern upon said flexible coveringwhich matches a predetermined group of human muscles, so that when saidflexible covering is placed upon a patient, said electrodes areproximate to the predetermined group of muscles, wherein said patternmatches predetermined groups of muscles, the muscles being the upperportion of the rectus abdominis, the lower portion of the rectusabdominis, the right obliques, and the left obliques.

(b) providing an exercise system 40 having:

-   -   an exercise apparatus 500 having a member 502 which is rotatable        about an axis 504 by an exercising user;    -   a transducer 20 communicating with axis 504; and,    -   so that as member 502 is rotated, transducer 20 generates an        output signal V_(θ) which is a function of an angular position        of member 502;

(c) providing an electro-muscle stimulation system (EMS) which deliversa voltage V1 (and/or V2) to transducer 20;

(d) providing electrical emphasis to certain regions over other regionswithin the muscle group;

(e) placing electro-muscle stimulation covering 550 upon the user;

(f) causing output signal V_(θ) to be delivered to electro-musclestimulation covering 550;

(g) the user rotating member 502 in a first direction 30 thereby causingoutput signal V_(θ) to increase thereby causing increased electro-musclestimulation to be applied to the user; and,

(h) the user rotating member 502 in an opposite direction 31 therebycausing output signal V_(θ) to decrease thereby causing decreasedelectro-muscle stimulation to be applied to the user.

The method further including in step (b), transducer 20 being apotentiometer. The method further including in step (b), providing aplurality of tranducers 20. The method further including in step (c), avoltage level control 21 connected between electro-muscle stimulationsystem EMS and transducer 20; and, so that the voltage to the transducermay be adjusted.

In terms of use, an alternate method for applying electro-musclestimulation, includes:

(a) providing an electro-muscle stimulation device having:

-   -   a flexible covering 320 having a plurality of spaced apart        electrodes 340, 342, 344, 346, 348, 350, and 352;    -   the electrodes including:        -   a first positive electrode 340;        -   a second positive electrode 342; and,        -   a return electrode 344 disposed between the first and second            positive electrodes;    -   a voltage source 334 connected between the positive electrodes        and the return electrode; and,    -   an adjustment control 331 which simultaneously applies a first        positive voltage 332 to the first positive electrode 340 and a        second positive voltage 333 to the second positive electrode        342, so that as the first positive voltage increases, the second        positive voltage decreases, and as the first positive voltage        decreases, the second positive voltage increases;

(b) providing an exercise system 40 having:

-   -   an exercise apparatus 500 having a member 502 which is rotatable        about an axis 504 by an exercising user;    -   a transducer 20 communicating with the axis 504; and,    -   so that as the member 502 is rotated, the transducer 20        generates an output signal V1 which is a function of an angular        position of the member 502;

(c) providing an electro-muscle stimulation system which delivers avoltage to the transducer;

(d) placing the electro-muscle stimulation covering 320 upon the user;

(e) causing the output signal V1 to be delivered to the electro-musclestimulation covering 320;

(f) the user rotating the member 502 in a first direction 30 therebycausing the output signal to increase thereby causing increasedelectro-muscle stimulation to be applied to the user; and,

(g) the user rotating the member 502 in an opposite second direction 31,thereby causing the output signal to decrease thereby causing decreasedelectro-muscle stimulation to be applied to the user.

The preferred embodiments of the invention described herein areexemplary and numerous modifications, variations, and rearrangements canbe readily envisioned to achieve an equivalent result, all of which areintended to be embraced within the scope of the appended claims.

1. A method for applying variable electro-muscle stimulation,comprising: (a) providing a flexible electro-muscle stimulation coveringhaving a plurality of spaced apart electrodes, said electrodes disposedin a pattern upon said flexible covering which matches a predeterminedgroup of human muscles, so that when said flexible covering is placedupon a user, said electrodes are proximate to the predetermined group ofmuscles, wherein said pattern matches predetermined groups of muscles,the muscles being the upper portion of the rectus abdominis, the lowerportion of the rectus abdominis, the right obliques, and the leftobliques; (b) providing an exercise system having: an exercise apparatushaving a member which is rotatable about an axis by the exercising user;a transducer communicating with said axis; and, so that as said memberis rotated, said transducer generates an output signal which is afunction of an angular position of said member; (c) providing anelectro-muscle stimulation system which delivers a voltage to saidtransducer; (d) providing electrical emphasis to certain regions overother regions within the muscle group; (e) placing said electro-musclestimulation covering upon the user; (f) causing said output signal to bedelivered to said electro-muscle stimulation covering; and, (g) the userrotating said member in a first direction thereby causing said outputsignal to increase thereby causing increased electro-muscle stimulationto be applied to the user.
 2. The method according to claim 1, furtherincluding: (h) the user rotating said member in an opposite seconddirection, thereby causing said output signal to decrease therebycausing decreased electro-muscle stimulation to be applied to the user.3. The method according to claim 1, further including: in step (a), saidelectrodes including: a first positive said electrode for placementproximate to the upper portion of the rectus abdominis; a secondpositive said electrode for placement proximate to the lower portion ofthe rectus abdominis, a third return said electrode disposed betweensaid first positive and second positive electrodes; and, a voltagesource connected between said positive electrodes and said returnelectrode.
 4. The method according to claim 3, further including: instep (a), said electrodes including: a fourth positive said electrodefor placement on the right obliques on the side of the abdomen above theiliac crest; a fifth return said electrode for placement proximate tothe junction of the right obliques and the upper and lower portions ofthe rectus abdominis; said fifth return said electrode disposed betweensaid fourth positive said electrode and said third return saidelectrode; and, a voltage source connected between said positiveelectrode and said return electrodes.
 5. The method according to claim3, further including: in step (a), said electrodes including: a sixthpositive said electrode for placement on the left obliques on the sideof the abdomen above the iliac crest; a seventh return said electrodefor placement proximate to the junction of the left obliques and theupper and lower portions of the rectus abdominis; said seventh returnsaid electrode disposed between said sixth positive said electrode andsaid third return said electrode; and, a voltage source connectedbetween said positive electrode and said return electrodes.
 6. Themethod according to claim 1, further including: in step (b), saidtransducer being a potentiometer.
 7. The method according to claim 1,further including: in step (b), providing a plurality of saidtransducers.
 8. The method according to claim 1, further including: instep (c), a voltage level control connected between said electro-musclestimulation system and said transducer; and, so that said voltage tosaid transducer may be adjusted.
 9. A method for applying variableelectro-muscle stimulation, comprising: (a) providing an electro-musclestimulation device having: a flexible covering having a plurality ofspaced apart electrodes; said electrodes including: a first positiveelectrode; a second positive electrode; and, a return electrode disposedbetween said first and second positive electrodes; a voltage sourceconnected between said positive electrodes and said return electrode;and, an adjustment control which simultaneously applies a first positivevoltage to said first positive electrode and a second positive voltageto said second positive electrode, so that as said first positivevoltage increases, said second positive voltage decreases, and as saidfirst positive voltage decreases, said second positive voltageincreases; (b) providing an exercise system having: an exerciseapparatus having a member which is rotatable about an axis by anexercising user; a transducer communicating with said axis; and, so thatas said member is rotated, said transducer generates an output signalwhich is a function of an angular position of said member; (c) providingan electro-muscle stimulation system which delivers a voltage to saidtransducer; (d) placing said electro-muscle stimulation covering uponthe user; (e) causing said output signal to be delivered to saidelectro-muscle stimulation covering; and, (f) the user rotating saidmember in a first direction thereby causing said output signal toincrease thereby causing increased electro-muscle stimulation to beapplied to the user.
 10. The method according to claim 9, furtherincluding: (g) the user rotating said member in an opposite seconddirection, thereby causing said output signal to decrease therebycausing decreased electro-muscle stimulation to be applied to the user.11. The method according to claim 9, further including: in step (b),said transducer being a potentiometer.
 12. The method according to claim9, further including: in step (b), providing a plurality of saidtransducers.
 13. The method according to claim 9, further including: instep, (c) a voltage level control connected between said electro-musclestimulation system and said transducer; and, so that said voltage tosaid transducer may be adjusted.
 14. A system for applying variableelectro-muscle stimulation, comprising: a flexible electro-musclestimulation covering disposable upon a user having a plurality of spacedapart electrodes, said electrodes disposed in a pattern upon saidflexible covering which matches a predetermined group of human muscles,so that when said flexible covering is placed upon the user, saidelectrodes are proximate to the predetermined group of muscles, whereinsaid pattern matches predetermined groups of muscles, the muscles beingthe upper portion of the rectus abdominis, the lower portion of therectus abdominis, the right obliques, and the left obliques; exerciseapparatus having a member which is rotatable about an axis by theexercising user; a transducer communicating with said axis; anelectro-muscle stimulation system which delivers a voltage to saidtransducer; so that as said member is rotated, said transducer generatesan output signal which is a function of an angular position of saidmember; said output signal delivered to said electro-muscle stimulationcovering; and, so that as the user rotates said member in a firstdirection, said output signal increases thereby causing increasingelectro-muscle stimulation, and as the user rotates said member in anopposite second direction, said output signal decreases thereby causingdecreasing electro-muscle stimulation.
 15. A system according to claim14, further including: said electrodes including: a first positive saidelectrode for placement proximate to the upper portion of the rectusabdominis; a second positive said electrode for placement proximate tothe lower portion of the rectus abdominis, a third return said electrodedisposed between said first positive and second positive electrodes;and, a voltage source connected between said positive electrodes andsaid return electrode.
 16. A system according to claim 15, furtherincluding: said electrodes including: a fourth positive said electrodefor placement on the right obliques on the side of the abdomen above theiliac crest; a fifth return said electrode for placement proximate tothe junction of the right obliques and the upper and lower portions ofthe rectus abdominis; said fifth return said electrode disposed betweensaid fourth positive said electrode and said third return saidelectrode; and, a voltage source connected between said positiveelectrode and said return electrodes.
 17. A system according to claim15, further including: said electrodes including: a sixth positive saidelectrode for placement on the left obliques on the side of the abdomenabove the iliac crest; a seventh return said electrode for placementproximate to the junction of the left obliques and the upper and lowerportions of the rectus abdominis; said seventh return said electrodedisposed between said sixth positive said electrode and said thirdreturn said electrode; and, a voltage source connected between saidpositive electrode and said return electrodes.
 18. A system according toclaim 14, further including: a voltage level control connected betweensaid electro-muscle stimulation system and said transducer; and so thatsaid voltage to said transducer may be adjusted.
 19. A system forapplying variable electro-muscle stimulation, comprising: anelectro-muscle stimulation covering disposable upon a user having: aflexible covering having a plurality of spaced apart electrodes; saidelectrodes including: a first positive electrode; a second positiveelectrode; and, a return electrode disposed between said first andsecond positive electrodes; a voltage source connected between saidpositive electrodes and said return electrode; and, an adjustmentcontrol which simultaneously applies a first positive voltage to saidfirst positive electrode and a second positive voltage to said secondpositive electrode, so that as said first positive voltage increases,said second positive voltage decreases, and as said first positivevoltage decreases, said second positive voltage increases; exerciseapparatus having a member which is rotatable about an axis by theexercising user; a transducer communicating with said axis; anelectro-muscle stimulation system which delivers a voltage to saidtransducer; so that as said member is rotated, said transducer generatesan output signal which is a function of an angular position of saidmember; said output signal delivered to said electro-muscle stimulationcovering; and, so that as the user rotates said member in a firstdirection, said output signal increases thereby causing increasingelectro-muscle stimulation, and as the user rotates said member in anopposite second direction, said output signal decreases thereby causingdecreasing electro-muscle stimulation.
 20. A system according to claim19, further including: a voltage level control connected between saidelectro-muscle stimulation system and said transducer; and so that saidvoltage to said transducer may be adjusted.
 21. A method for applyingelectro-muscle stimulation, comprising: (a) providing a flexibleelectro-muscle stimulation covering having a plurality of spaced apartelectrodes, said electrodes disposed in a pattern upon said flexiblecovering which matches a predetermined group of human muscles, so thatwhen said flexible covering is placed upon a user, said electrodes areproximate to the predetermined group of muscles, wherein said patternmatches predetermined groups of muscles, the muscles being the upperportion of the rectus abdominis, the lower portion of the rectusabdominis, the right obliques, and the left obliques; (b) providing anexercise system having: an exercise apparatus having a member which isrotatable about an axis by the exercising user; a transducercommunicating with said axis; and, so that as said member is rotated,said transducer generates an output signal which is a function of anangular position of said member; (c) providing an electro-musclestimulation system which delivers a voltage to said transducer; (d)providing electrical emphasis to certain regions over other regionswithin the muscle group; (e) placing said electro-muscle stimulationcovering upon the user; (f) causing said output signal to be deliveredto said electro-muscle stimulation covering; (g) the user not rotatingsaid member; and, (h) the user selecting a surge mode on saidelectro-muscle stimulation system to provide a surging constricting andreleasing action on the abdominal muscles during a rest or recoveryperiod.